More than a third of people in France volunteer their time
Associations and community groups remain influential despite decline, latest figures show
France is home to around 1.3 million active associations, providing opportunities in fields ranging from culture and environmental protection to social support and healthcare
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Nearly one in three people in France volunteer their time to help others, according to the latest figures, underlining the continued importance of associations and community groups despite a gradual decline in participation over recent years.
Some 34% of people in France volunteered their time in 2025, equivalent to around 19 million people, according to figures from France Bénévolat and the National Institute for Youth and Popular Education.
The figure is down from 38% in 2019, but volunteering remains a significant part of French civic life, with most volunteers contributing on a regular basis.
The findings come as the French government promotes volunteering through its JeVeuxAider platform, which links residents with opportunities across the country. A national 'Summer Tour' campaign is currently encouraging more people to become involved in local projects and associations.
Younger volunteers increasingly represented
Volunteering in France has traditionally been associated with retirees, but recent data suggest a broader range of people are now taking part.
People aged over 65 remain highly engaged, although their share of volunteers has fallen over time, from 38% in 2010 to 24% in 2024.
At the same time, younger volunteers account for a growing proportion of participants. People aged between 15 and 34 made up 23% of volunteers in 2024, compared with 16% in 2010.
Women also slightly outnumber men, representing 52% of volunteers.
The data indicates that volunteering is often a regular commitment rather than occasional participation. Seven in 10 volunteers involved with associations say they contribute at least once a week.
Volunteering opportunities in France are open to residents aged 16 and over, regardless of nationality. Most roles do not require previous experience and can range from a single event to a longer-term commitment.
Sport remains the leading sector
France is home to around 1.3 million active associations, providing opportunities in fields ranging from culture and environmental protection to social support and healthcare.
Most volunteers are involved through associations, accounting for around 11 million people. A further six million volunteer directly outside formal organisations, while around two million are involved through political, trade union or religious groups.
Sport attracts the largest share of volunteers, accounting for 31% of participation. Health and charitable activities represent 17%, while organisations focused on rights and advocacy account for 19%.
Culture and leisure activities also remain popular, attracting 12% and 13% of volunteers respectively.
By contrast, relatively few volunteers work in local development initiatives (2%) or medical research (4%).
